Veteran’s Day is often overlooked as far as holidays go, considered by many to be little more than a day off. I do not know many who observe the holiday or at least give it attention. Everyone knows the purpose of Veteran’s Day: honor and thank every man and woman who served in the United States Armed Forces. Around the country are ceremonies, memorials, and parades. Yet, I do not know many who partake in such celebrations.

Most do not celebrate because it never occurs to them. They are wrapped up in their work or school and simply never think about the holiday, or they do not know a veteran and therefore feel no personal connection to it. Understandable as that may be, I personally do not believe attending memorials or ceremonies is necessary to celebrate the holiday. The holiday’s intention is to show gratitude and appreciation to soldiers and that can be done in a number of ways. Donating or volunteering to charities/organizations intended to provide assistance for veterans is one way. Some families have special dinners with relatives that have served. Simply thanking or chatting with a veteran you know is great. Not everyone has the ability to attend local celebrations, but there are so many other ways to observe the holiday.

I believe we all know some who reject the holiday as they disagree with the military as a whole, or because they argue this holiday is just about unnecessary “hero worship” for soldiers. I myself do not agree with nor support everything the military does. I also acknowledge that individual soldiers have committed heinous crimes, even against other soldiers in the military. Yet that has never prevented me from respecting most soldiers. It is important to remember that soldiers are everyday people.

They deserve respect in the same way all people deserve respect. No, not every soldier is honorable, but that should not taint the view of the entire military in the same way that inept doctors do not taint the positive view of the medical profession. I never believed in so-called “hero worship” for soldiers, but on the other hand, there are few soldiers who desire hero worship. They don't ask for giant banners or grand displays of fireworks. Perhaps you don't believe soldiers deserve respect, but they protect your right to have such beliefs.

The holiday is about the individuals: the men and women who willingly dedicate their time and sacrifice their lives. Their motivations might be different. Some enlist for paid schooling and others, adventure. Others enlist due to familial tradition or to protect ideals they believe in. Whatever the reason, they sacrifice their own health, well being, or life for their country. Soldiers exist to protect and fight to defend. It's a dangerous and altruistic profession. I believe that choosing such a path warrants at least some respect.